This Labor Day holiday, Beijing's performing arts market is in full swing. Classic opera, jazz festivals,

and Strawberry Music Festival are all waiting for you. This holiday, catch a long-awaited show!

Siegfried (from Wagner's Opera Cycle The Ring of the Nibelung) 

The year 2026 marks the 150th anniversary of the premiere of The Ring of the Nibelung. This production will be led by renowned German conductor Marcus Bosch, who will conduct the China National Centre for the Performing Arts Orchestra. With the "Ring" as the visual and philosophical backbone of the entire production, acclaimed director Laurence Dale and his creative team will transform Wagner's philosophical reflections on power, nature, and other themes into a highly ritualistic and thought-provoking stage presentation.

Dates: May 2–4

Musical Don Juan

The French-language musical Don Juan weaves together the passionate and romantic life of Don Juan through 38 songs performed in an unbroken sequence. Exuberant Flamenco dance and an outstanding cast make a compelling holiday choice.

Dates: May 2–3

Children's Play The Little Prince

The Little Prince carries rich philosophical truth, helping young audiences discover the meaning of love, learn to care for others, and embrace responsibility while enjoying the performance.

Dates: May 2–5

"A Journey to Vienna" Amatis Trio Concert

Founded in 2014 and based in Salzburg, Austria, the Amatis Trio consists of violinist Lea Hausmann, cellist Samuel Shepherd and pianist Mengjie Han. On the evening of May 4, at the Small Theatre of the National Centre for the Performing Arts, they will perform three classic chamber music works: Haydn's Piano Trio in C Major, Beethoven's Piano Trio No. 1 in E-flat Major, and Schubert's Piano Trio No. 1 in B-flat Major.

Date: May 4

6th Taihu Jazz Festival

This six-day festival features nine stages across five venues, over 330 Chinese and international artists, more than 200 performances, and various special events. Headlined by Grammy-winning artists and leading Chinese jazz talents, the festival also offers specially curated experiences including immersive VR sessions, jazz light shows, master classes, and dance therapy sessions.

Date: April 30–May 5

2026 Beijing Strawberry Music Festival

Across three days, the festival will feature three daily themes—"Legendary Debuts & Rock Energy", "Pop Hits & Trendy Hip-Hop", and "Golden Classics & Singer-Songwriter Power". Highlights include the China debut of Johnny Marr (guitarist of The Smiths) and a special exclusive performance by the Pixies (a pioneering American indie rock band), alongside nearly 50 acts, including Shan Yichun, Tanya Chua, Yoga Lin, and Mao Buyi.

Dates: May 2–4

2026 Beijing Diamond Music Carnival

Get ready for three consecutive days of high-energy music parties, plus a five-day outdoor market offering food, drinks and entertainment. Food stalls, cocktail booths and a cosmic-themed interactive zone create a festival experience suitable for shopping, dining and spending time with the kids.

Dates: May 1–5

Which performance are you most looking forward to this Labor Day holiday? We would love to hear from you.

(Sources: Official WeChat account of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, Beijing Communication Radio)